Hard water spots from Mississippi River

Dacha

I just finished a summer of boating with a trip on the Mississippi as far south as Hannibal, MO. I now find that the cowling and lower units on my outboards and the boat sides are covered with water spots and the motors look like they have some sort of scales on them. I tried a high pressure car wash and scrubbed for a few hours with Starbrite Cleaner Wax with little success. Does anyone have any suggestions?

C-Hawk · Posted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 8:59 pm Post subject:

Use a strong mix of white vinegar and water. Soak a rag and let it set on the area for a few minutes and use a sponge with a scrub side to lightly rub the scale off.
I also use white vinegar to run through the engines and remove salt deposits.

KenMcC · Posted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 10:14 pm Post subject:

Agree entirely with Roger. Strong means about 50/50, and warm to hot is even better. Works beautifully.

Rinse and wipe afterwards, so the vinegar doesn't wipe out your wax job.

digger · Posted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:25 pm Post subject: If all else fails

I think it was TyBoo that told me about "BarKeepers Friend". I used it on Snoopy-C to get rid of spots that just couldn't be removed, especially on the glass. However, it is a mild abrasive, and will require waxing if used on the gel coat or motor cowling. However, rest assured, it does work. Ron

digger · Posted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:26 pm Post subject: Barkeepers friend

Forgot to tell you....it can be found in Fred Meyer stores in the housecleaning supplies area. Ron

Dacha · Posted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 9:12 pm Post subject:

Thanks for all the help. I 'll try it this weekend and be more careful next summer.